Want to learn more about one of North America’s rarest songbirds? Take advantage of two free tours featuring the Kirtland’s warbler and its jack pine habitat.
The outings, set for 7-10 a.m. Saturday, May 30, and again Saturday, June 13, will start and end at the DNR’s Grayling field office, 1955 Hartwick Pines Road, in Crawford County.
The tours will start with a short presentation detailing the Kirtland’s warbler history, past and current status, and future management strategies. Once nearly extinct, the gray and yellow songbird remains a state-threatened species, with about 95% of its worldwide population nesting in northern Michigan.
Tour participants will then make the short drive to tour the jack pine habitat and observe the warbler. This involves a roughly half-mile walk on a trail road. Bring sturdy footwear, binoculars, water and bug spray.
These events will take place rain or shine. RSVP to Tim Riley at RileyT6@Michigan.gov or 989-370-7313.
More birding opportunities
Observing birds in their natural habitat is a popular pastime, and for birders in Michigan that means the chance to see 450-plus species at state parks, state wildlife and game areas, and national wildlife refuges, along trails and Great Lakes coastline and in other outdoor places.
Visit Michigan.gov/Birding to learn more about the different birding seasons (spring and summer are big draws!), a dozen birding trails worth the drive and tips on getting started.
Want to learn more about one of North America’s rarest songbirds? Take advantage of two free tours featuring the Kirtland’s warbler and its jack pine habitat.
